The health chief Lo Chung-mau on Sunday said the government is working on its review of the SAR's healthcare system.

Lo's comments came after the Chief Executive said the government will reform the functions and divisions of work at the Hospital Authority, Department of Health and the newly-established Primary Healthcare Commission.

On a TVB programme, Lo explained how the healthcare system could be rearranged.

"For example, chest and dermatological services have been provided by the Department of Health. But we would like to redistribute these services to either the Hospital Authority or the Primary Healthcare Commission," he said.

"The Department of Health, meanwhile, will focus on disease prevention and control, health promotion and take on a monitoring role."

The health chief also urged those with chronic or episodic illnesses, such as the flu, not to immediately seek help from the Hospital Authority.

Lo said they should first consult their family doctor, and offered assurances that the government would still take care of the underprivileged.

"For those who cannot afford this, such as people on low incomes and who are receiving the comprehensive social security assistance, the government will be responsible for them. We will take care of them at the general out-patient clinics."